elsslots:
Khudafarin Bridges and related sites
Some points of possible interest on these bridges
a. There is a "complete" (i.e "crossable") 15 arch bridge and a partially destroyed 11 arch one.
Google Maps clearly shows that the 15 arch bridge sits astride the Azeri-Iranian frontier.(The coordinates for our T List maps are 39.150856, 46.940355 ) Any nomination would surely need to be a joint one - but, apparently, not for a T List entry.
In July 22 Iran was said to be "actively" discussing the "reconstruction" of the 15 arch bridge with Azerbaijan.
b. The 11 arch bridge destruction was carried out in the 1930s by the USSR, though one report states that it was a "joint USSR/Iranian decision" to cut ties between N and S Azerbaijan (how true??). A reminder that, in ethnic terms, "Azerbaijan" is divided between Azerbaijan and Iran, having been "Persian" until split during the series of Russo-Persian wars . Indeed the international frontier along the Aras river which the bridge crosses was only established in 1828. Whilst both contries are Shia, their post USSR relationships have been up and down and, currently, are "difficult" - it would be interesting to see if any joint cooperation could be established on this matter!
c. I have come across
this report from 10 Sept 2022 of a visit to the bridges by "Famous worldwide travelers" - No, not Els, but a group led by Charles Veley of "Most Travelled People" fame (infamy?). It seems that Azerbaijan is aiming to present the liberated area as a "Dark Tourism" destination - presumably showcasing the "destruction" of Azeri culture in the area during the Armenian occupation?